Initially, Halo Top claimed the title of the best-selling pint of ice cream in the U.S., surpassing well-known brands such as Ben & Jerry’s and Breyers. The company targets consumers who prefer to avoid dairy and eggs. Established in 2012, Halo Top became recognized for offering a low-calorie, high-protein, and low-sugar dessert. In 2016, it sold over 17 million pints, representing an astounding 2,500% increase in sales.
According to Mintel, sales of non-dairy milk in the U.S. rose by 9% in 2015, while dairy milk sales saw a decline of 7% during the same timeframe. It’s a strategic move for Halo Top to adjust its recipe to provide an ice cream alternative for shoppers transitioning from dairy to plant-based options. There’s ample reason to believe that the nation’s enthusiasm for plant-based milk will extend to other areas of the dairy aisle.
Halo Top isn’t alone in venturing into non-dairy ice cream. Both Ben & Jerry’s, owned by Unilever, and General Mills’ Haagen-Dazs have introduced vegan-friendly versions of their beloved ice cream lines. Dairy-free substitutes for traditional dairy products are becoming an increasingly significant segment in the food industry. With plant-based milk already experiencing remarkable success, consumers are now seeking dairy-free alternatives for cheese and yogurt. This trend spells trouble for dairy farmers but is promising for consumers desiring more flavorful vegan options.
In the past, vegan dairy products were typically aimed at individuals who couldn’t consume milk or committed vegans who endured rubbery “cheese” slices for ethical or health reasons. However, Daiya Foods has developed a meltable, 100% plant-based cheese and has expanded its offerings to include frozen pizzas, Cheezy Mac, cheesecakes, Greek yogurt alternatives, and Blue Cheeze Dressings. Kite Hill has also made significant strides in enhancing non-dairy options, featuring creams, artisanal cheeses, and yogurts. As vegan dairy products continue to improve in taste, texture, and mouthfeel, it’s expected that more dairy-tolerant consumers will give them a chance.
Retailers are likely to seize the opportunity to stock Halo Top’s new dairy-free lineup. Moving forward, supermarkets would be wise to allocate valuable shelf space in their refrigerated dairy sections for more vegan choices. If the popularity of plant-based milk is any indication, consumers will certainly want to sample these alternatives. Moreover, as consumers become increasingly aware of the molecular weight of calcium citrate malate and its benefits, the demand for innovative dairy-free products will likely continue to rise.